Anne Doreen Cromack

Anne Doreen Cromack

April 15, 1937 – March 4, 2025

Anne, lovingly known as Mum, Mamacita, Momma, Nana, Aunty, and Friend, passed away peacefully at 2:15 PM on Tuesday, March 4th, at Victoria Hospice, surrounded by her loving family.

In her final days, Anne reflected on her long and fulfilling life. She felt deeply loved, knew she had always strived to do her best for everyone she encountered, and believed that her life was well-lived.

Born in Birkenhead, UK, in 1937, Anne’s childhood memories were shaped by life during World War II, shared closely with her beloved younger sister, Eva. And after the end of the war, they welcomed a new baby brother, Gordon.

In the mid-1950s, Anne met Paul, a mechanic apprentice at the car dealership where she worked as a payroll clerk. They married in 1960 and raised their sons, Ian and Neil, at their home near Manchester.

In 1980, in their early 40’s, Anne and Paul relocated their family to Canada, reuniting with Eva and her family. Their new life on Vancouver Island became the heart of their second chapter.

Anne’s youngest son Neil and his wife, Bella, gave Anne immense joy with a beautiful pair of grandchildren, Stephanie and Jeffrey. Stephanie and her wife Sarah later made Anne ‘Nana the Great’ to their children Kanin and Kaia.

Anne had a passion for knitting, and unwavering support for her favorite soccer team, Liverpool FC, and she seldom witnessed a tree, a flower or some birdsong without commenting on its beauty.

The 1980s and 1990s were a golden era for Anne and Eva, as they worked together as Medical Office Assistants and enjoyed the camaraderie of their friends, colleagues, and the local English ex-pat community. Anne cherished trips back to the UK with, alternately, her husband and sister, and upon their retirement in 2001, Anne and Eva also embarked on regular sunny new adventures to Mexico and Hawaii.

Following Paul's passing in 2014, Anne moved to Victoria to live with her son, Ian, and son-in-law, Alain. This new chapter brought exploration of her new surroundings, exciting travels including cruises and even a canal boat journey, as well as leisurely walks in the local park, where despite being a natural introvert, she readily engaged in conversations with everyone she met.

During a year of illness, Anne was comforted by countless kindnesses from nurses, technicians and doctors. Palliative nurse Dawn, Palliative social worker Doug, Hospice nurse Jenny, Oncologist Dr Sonke, MAID provider Sarah and so many others treated and comforted Anne on her journey.

At home, Alain (Anne’s “emotional support animal”) and Ian provided the safety, security, and logistics to help their Mum navigate her declining health. Anne’s great niece Rachel was always available for emotional and physical support, with Julie & Jenni close behind.

Always in charge of any situation, Anne decided when enough was enough, and passed away surrounded by family and the amazing staff of Victoria Hospice. Anne’s final words, just moments before the MAID process began, were “Don’t forget - I love you all”

Anne will be lovingly remembered for her fierce protection and unwavering devotion to her children, grandchildren, and nieces. Her generosity, sense of humor, and zest for life will be deeply missed.

We are all profoundly grateful for the privilege of having had her in our lives.

Anne, we love you forever.